Ford does not directly encode the platform name in the VIN, although much other information is included there. Instead, the company uses a series number to identify a vehicle type. Ford's VIN format is as follows:

The model type is specified in positions five through seven of the American Ford VIN. The first position specifies the model line or marque, the next is the series, the last is the vehicle type. The type often indicates the engine size, driven wheels, body style, and similar factors.

Ford Australia have used the same basic system for chassis numbers on Australian assembled vehicles since the early 1960s.[1] When Australia went to mandatory 17-digit VINs in 1989, the Ford chassis numbers became 17-digit VINs by the addition of 6FPAAA ahead of the original numbering system.[2] With the exception of some L-series (Louisville) trucks fitted with other brands of engine, engine numbers match the VIN with the 6FPAAA omitted.